The 10 Best Harness for Small Dogs Review

A high-quality and reliable dog harness will turn a walk with your pet into an absolute pleasure. Especially for a small dog, it depends on the age, size, temperament, breed characteristics of the pet, and convenience for the owner. Our product review will help determine the best leash for your dog.

The Best Walking Harness for Small Dog (Reviews)

We did in-depth research and reviewed 10 harnesses suitable for small dogs.

1. Puppia Authentic RiteFit Harness with Adjustable Neck

Puppia Soft Dog Harness is a simple, everyday harness that will provide your pet with maximum comfort. The harness is designed for convenience and functionality. It is made of light fabric and adjustable straps with a D-ring for attaching to the leash. Thanks to the mesh and practical design, this harness allows your pet to feel comfortable during daily walks.

Key Features:

• Excellent value.
• Adjustable chest strap.
• Soft, comfortable material.

Size table:

Size	Neck Girth	Chest Girth
Small	9.5 – 1.5”	13 – 19″
Medium	11.5 – 14″	15 – 22″
Large	13 – 16″	19.5 – 29.5″
X-Large	16 – 19″	21.5 – 31.5″

2. HDP Big Dog No Pull Dog Harness

This soft dog harness features wide straps for extra comfort. The harness also has reflectors to increase your dog’s safety. The harness includes a strong D-ring to which you can attach the leash. The harness will help you fully control your pet and not allow it to pull the leash.

Key Features:

• Adjustable straps for a perfect fit.
• Provides freedom of movement.
• Distributes pressure perfectly, providing comfort.

Size table:

Size	Chest Girth
Medium	20 – 25 inches (0.64 m)
Large	25 – 32 inches (0.81 m)
X-Large	32 – 42 inches (1.07 m)
XX-Large	40 – 48 inches (1.22 m)

3. Blueberry Pet 3M Reflective Multi-Colored Stripe Padded Dog Harness

The Blueberry Pet Mesh harness has an attractive design made of durable mesh, oxford and polyester materials. The buckles of this harness are made of environmentally friendly plastic, and the metal D-ring is durable and has a long service life.

Key Features:

• Adjustable straps for a perfect fit.
• Reflectors for safety at night.
• Provides reliable fastening of the leash.

Size table:

Size	Chest Girth	Lower Neck Circumference	Chest Strap
Small	17.5 – 21″	14.5 – 20.5″	10″
Medium	22 – 26.5″	17.5 – 26″	11.5″
Large	28.5 – 38.5″	24.5 – 38.5″	14.5″

4. Kurgo Dog Harness

This excellent harness will provide comfort to your pet during walks. The small size can fit dogs that weigh 10—25 pounds (11.34 kg) and have a 12—20 inch (50.8 cm) neck and 16—22 inch (0.56 m) chest. This manufacturer focuses on producing harnesses for small breeds.

Key Features:

• Adjustable and comfortable harness for everyday use.
• Comfortable for your pet.
• Dog seatbelt tether included.

Size table:

Size	Neck Girth	Chest Girth
X-Small	9 – 13″	12 – 18″
Small	12 – 20″	16 – 22″
Medium	16 – 25″	18 – 28″
Large	18 – 30″	24 – 34″
X-Large	24 – 35″	28 – 44″

5. RUFFWEAR Front Range Dog Harness

This harness is made from soft fabric, so it is easy to put on and comfortable to wear. The harness has 2 leash attachment points: an aluminum V-ring located on the dog’s back for daily walks and a reinforced strap on the dog’s chest, which is useful for controlling dogs that are pulling. The harness also has a reflective finish for added safety of your pet. This model is available in various colors.

Key Features:

• Suitable for regular wear.
• Comfortable use for a long time.
• Easy to put.

Size table:

Size	Girth
XXS	13 – 17″
XS	17 – 22″
S	22 – 27″
M	27 – 32″
L/XL	32 – 42″

6. Chai’s Choice Polyester Reflective Front Clip Dog Harness

Ensure maximum safety for your pet with the Chef’s Choice 3M reflective harness. This harness evenly distributes pressure on the body of your pet and does not create discomfort. Soft, breathable fabric does not restrict the movement of the pet. Also, the harness has reflective inserts and adjustable straps. This model is available in several colors.

Key Features:

• Durable harness with wide chest pad.
• Padded chest and belly straps keep dogs comfortable.
• Strong leash attachments.

Size table:

Size	Chest Girth
X-Small	13 – 17″
Small	17 – 22″
Medium	22 – 27″
Large	27 – 32″
X-Large	32 – 42″

7. Julius-K9 IDC Powerharness Nylon Reflective No Pull Dog Harness

The Julius-K9 DC Power harness is made of eco-Tex material. This breathable fabric is easy to use and suitable for everyday use. The durable construction is of German-made materials, wear-resistant buckles that withstand all weather conditions and a water-repellent coating. The chest strap is equipped with a retroreflector to ensure visibility in low light conditions. The model is designed to give your dog freedom of movement.

Key Features:

• Water-repellent outer shell.
• Ideal for everyday use.
• Perfect for nighttime strolls.

Size table:

Size	Chest Girth	Suggested Pet Weight
Baby 1	11.5 – 14″	1.76 – 6.61 lbs
Baby 2	13 – 17.5″	4.4 – 11 lbs
Mini-Mini	15.5 – 21″	8.81 – 15.43 lbs
Mini	19.5 – 26.5″	15.43 – 33 lbs
Size 0	23 – 30″	31 – 55 lbs
Size 1	25 – 33.5″	50.5 – 66 lbs
Size 2	28 – 38″	61.5 – 88 lbs
Size 3	32.5 – 45.5″	88 – 154 lbs

8. Best Pet Supplies Voyager Step-In Mesh Dog Harness

The Best Voyager pet harness has several size adjustment points to correctly fit your pet. The breathable mesh that the harness is made of helps avoid irritation or suffocation if your active puppy pulls too hard. This product also has reflectors that will help you protect and not lose your pet during night walks.

Key Features:

• Padded harness stays clear of your dog’s neck and prevents chafing.
• Easy to take off and put on the pet.
• Will not allow your dog to break free.

Size table:

Size	Dimensions
X-Small	7.5 × 7.5 × 1.5 inches (3.81 cm)
Small	8 × 9 × 1.5 inches (3.81 cm)
Medium	10 × 11 × 2 inches (5.08 cm)
Large	11 × 12 × 2 inches (5.08 cm)

9. Best Pet Supplies Voyager Plush Suede Dog Harness

This model has multiple adjustment points and an adjustable belt that allows you to ensure the correct fit of the harness, as well as easily remove and put on the harness. In addition, the Voyager can be machine-washed.

Key Features:

• The cozy fabric provides a warm, comfortable walk — even in cold weather.
• The vest can be machine-washed.
• Easy to clean even after the hardest adventures.

Size table:

Size	Chest Girth
X-Small	13 – 14.5″
Small	14.5 – 17″
Medium	16 – 18″
Large	18 – 21″
X-Large	21 – 23″

10. Sleepypod Clickit Sport Utility Safety Harness

Provide your puppy with maximum protection and comfort with the Sleepypod Clickit Sport Dog safety belt. This model helps distribute pressure and does not create discomfort for your pet. The padded vest helps reduce friction when driving the car. If the car suddenly stops, the vest will gently hold your pet.

Key Features:

• Comfortable support.
• Distributes pressure perfectly.
• No extra gear needed.

Size table:

Size	Chest Girth
Small	16.5 – 22″
Medium	22.5 – 28″
Large	28.5 – 34″
X-Large	34.5 – 40″

*All ratings are formed by the article’s author based on own research and combined with customer reviews.

Buying Guide

There are two main types of harnesses for dogs:

A leash allows you to control the movement of a dog. It is made in the form of a strap with a carabiner for attaching to the collar.

A harness consists of belts of a specific design. The harness covers part of the animal’s back and chest. It differs from a collar in that it does not load or injure the dog’s neck. Also, it allows the pet to comfortably breath and provides it with greater freedom of movement.

Cons of a harness compared to a collar: high price, difficult movement control of an insufficiently trained animal. Before buying this product, the neck circumference must be measured and the chest volume and back length, which makes it challenging to choose the right model. An incorrectly selected harness will negatively affect the dog’s health and comfort. The harness is ideal for walking small dogs (Yorkshire Terrier, Spitz, Chihuahua).

Stores offer dozens of leash options that differ in price, size, appearance and other parameters. First, you need to decide on the material from which the accessory is made.

READ MORE: Socializing Puppy with Other Dogs

Material

Generally, leashes and harnesses can be made from:

• Leather. Leather leashes look stylish and expensive, suitable for small and medium-sized dogs, as a large pet can easily chew through the skin. Over time, the leash loses its appearance, fades and becomes covered with cracks. Some options combine leather with metal chains or nylon inserts.
• Metal. Metal chains look elegant and beautify pedigreed animals. Products are often chosen for fighting dogs that can chew through less strong leashes. Metal is reliable and durable. Chains are well combined with different types of collars. A significant disadvantage is an additional weight that may cause inconvenience to the owner.
• Tarpaulin. Tarpaulin is the most durable, practical and affordable material. These products are suitable for walking and training. Even the most aggressive dog will not be able to chew through a durable tarp. An additional plus is a comfort for the owner. The leash does not slip in the hands and is may be easily washed if dirty.
• Nylon. Nylon leashes have the same advantages as canvas ones. They can be traditional or equipped with a wide loop at the end to fix the hand. A more popular option is a tape measure leash, which is convenient for controlling your pet on walks. Nylon is more often bought for small — medium-sized dogs, or for small puppies, and is also used as a leash for walking several pets.^[3]

Size and length

The length of the leash is chosen depending on the breed and age of the dog. Too small items are impractical for daily walks but can be used for training.  Make sure that your dog does not choke.  Also, dogs can escape from a big harness. Leashes are roulettes up to 10 — 15 feet (4.57 m) long or classic models 5 — 6 feet (1.83 m) long for toy dogs and small breeds.

Ideally, the harness straps are attached to the body tightly so that they do not move. At the same time, the accessory should not restrict the pet’s movements; excessive tension will make it difficult for the dog to walk and run, and may provoke inflammation and hair loss in the contact zone.

Comfort

The main requirement for the product is that it be comfortable. The most suitable no-pull harnesses for small dogs may be used as a means for training the pet, but too frequent use can harm its coat. After walking, it is better to remove it. Leaving the dog in the harness at home without supervision is unacceptable, as it can lead to undesirable consequences. ^[2]

Collar

The collar should be comfortable for the pet: wide, soft, and durable. You should be able to put two fingers between the animal’s body and the collar. A more spacious product will not work, as an active dog will be able to turn around and run away. It is more practical to buy a collar the length of which can be adjusted independently.

Synthetic collars are lined with soft fabric: fleece, wool or felt. When buying, you need to check the reliability of the ring attached to the carabiner leash.

For puppies, toy dog breed of animals, or very active pets, it is more convenient to use a harness attached not to the neck and the body. These models are also great for dogs with thick hair: spaniels, setters, Chow Chows. Animals with an exceptionally tender neck need collars with an expanded front part that resembles a bib. ^[1]

READ MORE: Outdoor Activities for Dogs

How to measure a small dog for a harness?

Harnesses value is explained by creating the most comfortable conditions for animals, allowing them to correctly distribute the load on the skeleton and avoid possible injuries.

To get the perfect result, it is essential to choose the correct size, because a tight harness may cause harm.

The main function of the harness is to fit snugly around the dog’s body and properly distribute its load. It is very important to accurately determine the size.

In order not to make a mistake, you need to take these measurements:

• Back length: Measured from the base of the withers to the bottom of the tail.
• Volume of the neck (you can measure it directly under the collar): The front point should be located on the keel — the protruding bone under the dog’s neck, and the back should be measured on the edge of the front shoulder blades.
• Chest circumference:  Measure by focusing on the broadest part of the chest. Remember that you should add a couple of centimeters so that the harness does not squeeze the dog’s chest. The size of a dog harnesses requires a small backlash of a few inches, which you can adjust with belts.

Dog Harness Sizing Chart

Using the table below, you can determine the size that will fit your dog perfectly.

FAQ

Article Sources:

1. “Travel Safely with Your Pet by Car, Airplane, Ship or Train.” The Humane Society of the United States, humanesociety.org/resources/travel-safely-your-pet-car-airplane-ship-or-train.
2. Siler, Wes. “Drive with Your Dog? Consider This.” Outside Online, 24 July 2019, outsideonline.com/2326736/we-need-talk-about-keeping-dogs-safe-cars.
3. “An Update to the New Jersey Pet Seat Belt Law.” Lombardo Law Office, 25 Feb. 2020, lombardolawoffices.com/an-update-to-the-new-jersey-pet-seat-belt-law/.